ROYAL CANADIAN AIR CADETS SQUADRON #60

As the Second World War commenced, the Royal Canadian Forces opened training stations on the Island and throughout Canada.

One of interest to the community of Stanley Bridge was the formation of the organization called the Royal Canadian Air Cadets SQUADRON # 60. These young people ranged in ages from fifteen years upwards. These volunteers studied the rules and regulations of the Air Force while they were completing their College studies. Morse Code, Map Reading and familiarization with the various aircraft ranked high on the Agenda of each weekly meeting.

In addition, the students attended a two-week summer camp at the R.C.A.F. Station in Lakeville, New Brunswick. This camp enabled the students to attain first hand information on the operation of a station and the lifestyle of the regular Air Force service people.

Much time was taken up with basic drill and parades. The Cadet also had an opportunity to share the cockpit with the pilots on the various aircraft, although actual flights were kept to a minimum. If, in the future, it became necessary to enlist these enthusiastic young people, it was hoped that they would be in the vanguard of the regular Air Force.

Three young men from Stanley Bridge were members of #60 Cadet Corps. They were Francis W.P. Bolger, A.S. “Buddy” MacEwen and Norbert Reid. Norbert later joined the active Forces.

This picture of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets Squadron 60 was taken in Charlottetown in I 941 . Back row -from I. - #5 — Norbert Reid Front row -from I. - #5 - F.W.P. Bolger Insert - AS. “Buddy” MacEwen

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